Gabillon Masters Nurburgring Competition

Frederic Gabillon (12) earned his first NASCAR Whelen Euro Series victory of the season Sunday at the Nurburgring. (Stephane Azemard Photo)

NURBURG, Germany – Frederic Gabillon found his way to victory lane for the first time this season by taking the lead on lap three of Sunday’s ELITE 1 race at the Nurburgring and driving away from his rivals to score his fifth career NASCAR Whelen Euro Series win.

He is the sixth different driver to win a NASCAR Whelen Euro Series ELITE 1 race in 2014. Gabillon’s last victory came in the 2013 Le Mans Finals, when he swept the weekend to finish second in the championship.

The Frenchman took advantage of a contact between Ander Vilarino and Borja Garcia that sent the championship leader spinning into the barriers and ending his race, triggering the only safety car period of the race. The Spanish duo had been battling for the lead since the start of the race and the accident let Gabillon through. Once the Still Racing driver was in front he imposed a very fast pace. Garcia had to settle for second, crossing the finish line 2.937 seconds behind.

“It was tough because the track was very slippery. I’m sorry for Ander, I’ve been unlucky in Tours and i know how it feels like. He didn’t deserve to end in such a poor way,” said Gabillon, who dedicated the win to his crew chief. “I’m happy for my team, they did a great job. This is the last race for my crew chief and it’s good to give him this satisfaction.”

Anthony Kumpen was initially involved in the four-way battle for the lead and ended up on the third step of the podium, scoring important points and retaking the lead in the championship.